Vol. 2 - Module 4 Act. - APPEARANCE

Module 4
LESSON TITLE: Appearance
INTRODUCTION: Upon completion of this lesson, students will understand the

importance of their appearance, grooming, hygiene, and etiquette
in the classroom and work environment. In addition, the objectives
listed below should be met.
OBJECTIVES:
Understand the importance of appearance in the classroom and
work environment
Display appropriate dress according to chosen career fields
Have a groomed and neat appearance
Practice good personal hygiene which includes bathing, using
deodorant, and practicing oral cleaning habits
Use correct and polite behavior (etiquette) in all settings that
deal with other students, instructors, school staff and
administration, and customers of the institute
EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS:
Module 4 Appearance
MODULE OVERVIEW:
Appearance deals with every aspect of how we perceive an individual. In an instant, we

form opinions about a person based on that individuals appearance, smell, cleanliness,
and mannerisms. Those brief seconds define how we treat others or are treated by
others. Likewise, our appearance is a direct reflection of the environment in which we
were raised (i.e. a reflection upon our parents and families). Through our actions and
appearance, others may form a lasting, and sometimes detrimental, impression of us
that we may never overcome. In this module, students will learn the importance of their
appearance and how it may affect their peer relationships and productivity.
2
This document is under developmental copyright by the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education. Do not reproduce any part of this
document without written permission from the Commissioner of the Department of Technical and Adult Education or his assigned representative.
APPEARANCE
Ones appearance is directly related to the career field in which they work. True or
false? Lets see would you expect your female automobile mechanic to have grease
under her nails and smell of gasoline or diesel fuel? Of course. Would you expect the
female teller at the bank you use to have grease under her nails and smell of gasoline
or diesel fuel? Probably not. Would you expect your female automobile mechanic to
work in high heels and a dress? Not likely. In an automobile service department, the
smell of gasoline, diesel fuel, and oil are accepted odors that most of us expect and
would not find offensive in that setting. You would expect the mechanic to be dressed
safely for work which would not include heels that she could trip in or a dress which
could expose her skin to harsh and/or hot chemicals. However, in a bank you would not
expect the person that is greeting the public and handling money to have a strong odor
or dirty nails; you very well might find her offensive. Whats the difference?
Depending on the career field, acceptable appearances may vary, as in the example
above. However, regardless of your job, there is no excuse for not being groomed,
being neat, practicing good personal hygiene, or using correct and polite behavior. A
lack of attention on your part in any of these areas can affect your job and/or your
business.
For your program, the proper classroom/lab attire is:
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
A person who is groomed and neat in appearance has cleaned and combed hair that is
styled appropriately for the job or class. Clothes are pressed, shirttails tucked in,
shoelaces tied, and so on. Stockings are run-free, and shoe heels are appropriate for
the job or class. Make-up and cologne are tastefully applied without being overbearing.
Nails are clean and manicured and are an appropriate length for the classroom or lab.
The practice of good personal hygiene is a must. Daily bathing, especially in our region
of the country, is a necessity. Body perspiration causes odors that can be very offensive
to others. The heat and humidity we experience in the South compounds this problem.
The use of a deodorant and antiperspirant is only effective as long as the body is clean
and free of dirt and sweat. Likewise, good oral hygiene and brushing and flossing daily
aid in the prevention of bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. Be sensitive to others
around you by taking care of yourself and your bodys needs.
3
Correct and polite behavior is the acceptable conduct for class or a job. It shows
respect for oneself as well as others. Acceptable behavior may include:
Not interrupting others while they are talking;

Not carrying on side conversations while someone is talking;
Considering others feelings and concerns when making decisions or comments;
Being respectful of the instructor and classmates;
Avoiding arguments and disagreements;
Providing assistance when asked;
Using terms such as please and thank you.
4
MODULE 4
Appearance
Activities
Suggested Activities For

5
Module 4
APPEARANCE
Page
Activity Title Time
No.
1 Rate Your Behavior 30 7
2 Omitting Offensive Language 10 10
3 Turning Around Put-Downs 30 12
4 Work Ethic and Human Relations on the Job 20 14
5 Workplace Grooming 20 16
6 Why Was I Fired? 20 18
7 Manners, Appearance, Hygiene 10 20
8 Choosing the Right Clothes 30 31
9 Etiquette 15 36
10 Appearances Count 10 38
6
Module 4 Activity 1 APPEARANCE
Activity: Rate Your Behavior
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Rate Your Behavior, Rate My Behavior,

pen or pencil
Directions: Distribute the "Rate Your Behavior" handout. Have students spend
a few minutes completing the handout. Then have students pair up
with another student in class. Distribute the "Rate My Behavior"
handout. Have students rate the behavior of their partners by what
the partners have witnessed in the classroom in the past few class
sessions. Once completed, have the two students discuss with one
another how the other has perceived him/her. Explain to students
that how we perceive ourselves may not be how others perceive
us. It is important to recognize how we come across to others and
then modify our behavior or appearance accordingly.
Time Required:
30 Minutes
7
Rate Your Behavior

How well do you function as a member of your class? Think about the last few class
sessions you have attended, and then answer these questions:
1. What do you do if you disagree with something that's said?
2. Are you courteous to other class members?
3. Have you told a classmate that his idea or comment was stupid or dumb in any
way?
4. Do you disrupt the instructor while he/she is lecturing or answering another

student's question?
5. Are you supportive and encouraging to other class members, even if you don't
agree with what they are saying?
6. When another member of the class is disruptive or puts down other members'
suggestions, do you call attention to his or her behavior and suggest a better
approach?
8
Rate My Behavior
How well do I function as a member of our class? Think about the last few class
sessions I have attended, and then answer these questions:
1. What do I do if I disagree with something that's said?
2. Am I courteous to other class members?
3. Have I told a classmate that his idea or comment was stupid or dumb in any
way?
4. Do I disrupt the instructor while he/she is lecturing or answering another student's

question?
5. Am I supportive and encouraging to other class members, even if I don't agree

with what they are saying?
6. When another member of the class is disruptive or puts down other members'
suggestions, do I call attention to his or her behavior and suggest a better
approach?
9
Activity: Omitting Offensive Language
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Omitting Offensive Language, pen or

pencil, whiteboard
Directions: Distribute the "Omitting Offensive Language" handout. Have

students spend a few minutes completing the handout. In an open
discussion, have students share as to how they feel the language
could be made more appealing. Out of all of the responses for each
sentence, write the one the class feels is most appropriate on the
board.
Time Required:
10 Minutes
10
Omitting Offensive Language

Here are some undesirable, offensive ways in which people sometimes speak to one
another in the workplace. Rewrite each sentence to make the language more appealing
and to reflect good interpersonal communication skills.
1. Most of "you people" have trouble with grammar.
2. That sweater really shows off all your "assets."
3. Would you stop bugging me: I'm busy!
4. You kids don't know how to do anything!
5. All you Orientals are good at math.
6. Hey! Shut up back there; I'm on the phone!
7. Get out of my space, NOW!
8. An idiot could figure that one out.
9. What else is a man good for?
10. Get me a copy of this pronto, Tonto.
--Source: Adapted from a reproducible student activity sheet from Contemporary Work Matters, published
by Public/Private Ventures.
11
Activity: Turning Around Put-Downs
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Turning Around Put-Downs, flip chart

paper, marking pens, masking tape
Directions: Divide students into groups of three. Explain that each group
should brainstorm specific things that employees can do to turn
around put-downs. The challenge is to come up with as many ways
as possible to make the negative comments more positive. Have
students write their ideas on the chart paper with markers so they
can be shared with the class after the brainstorming begins. Allow
students 20 minutes to complete the task. After many ideas are
generated, call time, and have students tape their completed
sheets of paper on the walls. Ask each group to appoint a
spokesperson that will explain the group's suggestions. Have each
spokesperson report to the large group (2 minutes for each group).
Have the class decide which positive turn-around in each scenario
is best.
Time Required:
30 Minutes
12
Turning Around Put-Downs

Sometimes people put others down just to test them. This happens in the workplace
and in the classroom, too, where tensions may run high. If you remember to reply
calmly, not angrily, you will not only get your point across better but will also never have
to regret what you've said. What might you say in each of these situations instead of
getting angry?
You accidentally dropped a large package of sugar on the newly cleaned floor in the
kitchen. Someone says, "You're such a klutz. I knew they hired you just because
you're female."
You could say . . .
You just started working at a grocery store. You offer to help an elderly man carry his
groceries to the parking lot. Another worker yells, "Hey, there goes Mother Teresa!"
You could say . . .
You missed work a few days because your infant was sick. The next day, a co-
worker says, "How are we supposed to get anything done around here with
irresponsible workers like you?"
You could say . . .
You work at an ice cream stand and accidentally gave two extra milkshakes to a
customer. A co-worker says, "You're supposed to sell the stuff, dummy, not give it
away."
You could say . . .
--Source: Adapted from a reproducible student activity sheet from Contemporary Work Matters, published by
Public/Private Ventures.
13
Activity: Work Ethic and Human Relations on the Job
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Work Ethic and Human Relations on the

Job--Student Activity Sheet on Annoying Habits, pen or pencil
Directions: Distribute to each student the Student Activity Sheet on Annoying

Habits. Ask each student to rate each of the habits on a scale of 1-
5, with 1 being extremely annoying and 5 being not annoying. Allow
10 minutes to complete this assignment. Once completed, have the
class discuss how they ranked each habit. Point out the differences
in how we perceive habits and that we are all different in what we
like and don't like in individuals.
Time Required:
20 Minutes
14
Work Ethic and Human Relations on the Job

ANNOYING HABITS
DIRECTIONS: Rate each of the following habits on a scale of 1-5. Be prepared to

discuss your rating in class.
1 = extremely annoying
2 = very annoying
3 = annoying
4 = somewhat annoying
5 = does not annoy me at all
_____ 1. Being bossy _____ 14. Putting on airs
_____ 2. Bragging _____ 15. Seeking attention
_____ 3. Cheating _____ 16. Spitting
_____ 4. Continually criticizing _____ 17. Talking too much
_____ 5. Coughing on others _____ 18. Talking too loudly
_____ 6. Cracking or popping gum _____ 19. Talking about sex
_____ 7. Disrespecting the elderly _____ 20. Trying to be funny
_____ 8. Gossiping _____ 21. Using baby talk
_____ 9. Giving unwanted advice _____ 22. Using incorrect words
_____ 10. Having body odor or bad breath _____ 23. Cursing
_____ 11. Losing temper _____ 24. Dominating conversations
_____ 12. Telling "little white lies" _____ 25. Overusing slang language
_____ 13. Pushing to the front of lines
15
Activity: Workplace Grooming
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: The Dental Hygienist, pen or pencil
Directions: Divide students into groups of three. Explain that each group
should read the activity sheet, "The Dental Hygienist". As a group,
they should decide which hygienist Dr. Emerson should fire and
why. Once they have answered the question, a spokesperson from
the group should be prepared to tell the class what the group's
answer was and the reasoning for it. The class, as a whole, should
then compare group answers in a class discussion.
Time Required:
20 Minutes
16
The Dental Hygienist

Dr. Emerson was a dentist in a large metropolitan area. He had been in practice for
seven years after buying out a partner who was ready to retire. During the past year,
competition had increased as a result of two additional dentist offices opening near his.
He continued to increase his patient load, however, by spending money on advertising
and office improvements, and by trying to offer good service to all who were under his
care.
Jeanine was a dental hygienist employed by Dr. Emerson six months ago. She had
been highly recommended by the school she had attended and had graduated with the
top grades in her class. As Dr. Emerson observed Jeanine's work, he saw that she was
very skilled and that she did a good job applying the knowledge she had learned in
school. She was able to operate several modern pieces of equipment recently
purchased for the office that his other hygienists had not yet learned to use.
Recently, Dr. Emerson was reviewing a monthly report that was produced by a new
computer system now being used in the office, and he discovered that on a percentage
basis, patients who had been seen by Jeanine were not returning for further services.
He was to have a staff meeting this morning with his office manager, and he decided to
inquire further about the apparent trend.
When Dr. Emerson asked his office manager about the report, she was evasive at first.
When questioned further, she told him that several patients had complained about
Jeanine. One had said that she was not very cheerful and another thought she was not
friendly. The office manager had also been told by one of the other hygienists that
Jeanine usually jogged in the mornings before work and did not take enough time fixing
her hair and making herself presentable before coming to work. With the close working
conditions between patient and hygienist, careful attention to personal grooming was an
issue the office manager felt was important.
Six months later . . .

Dr. Emerson faced increased competition, and the number of patients he is seeing has
declined. In spite of efforts to reverse the decline, patients continue to switch to other
dentists. The office manager continues to suggest that a major part of the problem is
Jeanine. She points to reports generated by the computer system which indicate that
Jeanine has a higher percentage of patients who do not return than do the other
hygienists.
With the reduced patient load, Dr. Emerson will now need to fire one of his hygienists.
Jeanine is more skilled in her actual dental work and made better grades in school.
Which hygienist should Dr. Emerson fire? Why?
17
Activity: Why Was I Fired?
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Why Was I Fired? Pen or pencil
Directions: Divide students in small groups. Explain that each group should
read the activity sheet, "Why Was I Fired?" The group should then
answer the questions on the activity sheet. They should select a
spokesperson from the group who will explain to the class their
answers and the reasoning for their answers. The class, as a
whole, should then compare group answers in a class discussion.
Time Required:
20 Minutes
18
Why Was I Fired?

Read the following scenario. Based on the information discussed in class, decide the
reason the person was terminated. Answer the questions at the end of the scenario. Be
prepared to explain your reasoning in class.
19
Paula worked in a sewing factory that manufactured children's
clothing. Her mother had been a seamstress and had taught
Paula a lot about how to sew. The supervisor admired Paula's
work and always commented on her speed. Paula did not have
very many friends at work. She did not understand why. She was
always very eager to help others and went out of her way to
thread needles, change thread, and so on, for co-workers.
Paula did not spend a lot of time grooming in the mornings. She
had body odor, and others found it offensive. The supervisor had
tried to tell her in a polite way, but Paula did not get the message.
One day Paula overheard several of the women talking and
laughing about buying her a bar of soap, deodorant, and a wash
cloth for her birthday. Paula went over and slapped one of the
women. Paula was fired. Why was she fired? Should she have
been fired? Did the supervisor do his/her job correctly? Would you
want to work with Paula? Why or why not?
Activity: Manners, Appearance, and Hygiene
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparencies chosen from the following activity sheets:
1. Manners on the Job

2. Good Grooming Habits
3. Four Basic Food Groups
4. Dressing To Get and Keep The Job
5. Smoking
6. Conversation
7. Table Setting
8. Serving Food
9. General Manners
10. Manners & Grooming Questionnaire
Directions: Each of the activity sheets deals with some aspect of manners,
appearance, and hygiene. You may use handouts or transparencies
in completing the activities. Lead your students in a discussion of
their responses to each assigned activity.
Time Required:
10 Minutes
Each Activity
Manners on the Job

Make a good impression with the way you treat others!
Shaking hands is a business greeting.

Offer your hand with thumb up and out
Shake hands--not fingers
Shake from the elbow
Doors
Hold the door for a person behind
you, whether male or female.
A man should allow a woman to
pass through a door first.
Do:
Chew with your mouth closed.
Use a napkin.
Turn your head when you sneeze.
Clean up after yourself.
Don't:
Belch or burp.
Comb hair around food.
Introductions
Name the older person or the
person of higher authority first.
Say something about people after
introducing them.
--Life Skills: Job Skills - Lesson 5 - Manners

On the Job--The University of Georgia
Cooperative Extension Service
Good Grooming Habits
INSTRUCTIONS: Place an X beside each item below that is a good
grooming habit.
_____ 1. Bathe weekly

_____ 2. Exercise regularly
_____ 3. Shampoo hair daily if needed
_____ 4. Brush teeth every three days
_____ 5. Shave monthly
_____ 6. Manicure nails regularly
_____ 7. Have hair trimmed once a year
_____ 8. Do not brush or comb hair
_____ 9. Never use antiperspirant or deodorant
_____ 10. Practice good posture
Four Basic Food Groups

INSTRUCTIONS: List the four basic food groups and give an example
of each.
1.
2.
3.
4.
--Common Essential Elements Human Relations and Personality Development

Dressing
to Get
and Keep
the Job
Colors to wear: black, brown, blue, gray with accent colors of red,
green, and yellow
Looking overly casual, earthy, romantic, or glamorous is not good

for the business office or for interviews.
CLOTHES
Classic, clean, suits, dresses
UNDERGARMENTS
Comfortable, neat, and clean
SHOES
Neat, comfortable but dressy
No open toes or tennis shoes
ACCESSORIES
No more than three accessories with any outfit
No dangling jewelry, earrings, bracelets
Maximum of one ring on each hand
If it hangs, bangs, clangs, or jangles, dont wear it in the
office.
HANDBAGS
Use briefcase, satchel or handbag to match shoes
HAIR
Smooth and controlled, no fancy or complicated hairstyles
MAKEUP
No frosted makeup, use matte eyeshadow, blusher, lipstick
Use pale or muted nail polish, nothing glaring
FRAGRANCE
Crisp and clean, nothing heavy, strong, or sweet
SIGNIFICANCE OF COLORS
BLACKcolor of authority
REDgood for confidence
BROWNdenotes reliability
GREYshows dependability
Pastels are best worn for accents such as blouses and scarves.
They suggest lack of credibility.
OTHER SUGGESTIONS
A jacket is a source of power.
Fit of clothes should be elegantly loose. (Tight screams cheap.)
Solid colors make the wearer appear thinner.
Suits should be in proportion to the body. For example, short

people should not wear clothes made for tall, thin models.
Smoking
Ask about the
smoking
policy. Never
smoke if you
might offend
even one
person at
work.
Don't smoke in someone's office

without asking permission.
Don't feel irritated if the answer is

"no."
--Life Skills: Job Skills - Lesson 5 - Manners on the Job
1997 The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service
Conversation
Never interrupt
Avoid:
Confidential information
Your health
Other people's health
Controversial subjects
How much things cost
Personal misfortunes
Stories in questionable taste
Harmful gossip

Table Setting
Everyday
Meal
Special
Meal

Serving Food
Pass all foods in the same direction
Serve beverages on the right side of the

guest; serve food on the left side of the
guest.
Clear cups and glasses from the right;

clear plates from the left.

General Manners
GUM
Don't chew
gum when
you want to
make a good
impression.
Give your bus
seat to older
or disabled
persons.
Cover mouth
when
coughing or
sneezing. Call if you'll
be late for an
Use appointment.
toothpicks in
private
Failing in the past does not mean

you will fail in the future.
Manners & Grooming Questionnaire

DIRECTIONS: For each statement listed below, rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10
for each of the items. A rating of 10 would indicate that the
statement is always true, and a rating of 1 would indicate that it is
never true.
_____ 1. I always say please and thank you when I ask someone for something.
_____ 2. The clothes I wear would never offend another person.
_____ 3. If something bad happens to someone I don't like, I tell my friends and
laugh about it when that person is not around.
_____ 4. I never curse or use offensive language in public places.
_____ 5. My hair is clean and well groomed.
_____ 6. People who know me would describe me as cheerful and friendly.
_____ 7. I always have good posture.
_____ 8. When I talk to someone, I look them in the eyes.
_____ 9. I keep my fingernails clean and nicely trimmed.
_____ 10. I usually become angry and lose my temper when things don't go my way.
_____ 11. When other people do something differently from the way I would do it, I
avoid being critical of them.
_____ 12. I dont bite my fingernails.
_____ 13. When I sneeze or cough, I always cover my mouth.
_____ 14. My table manners are very good.
_____ 15. If someone gives me a gift or does me favor, I send them a thank you
note.
--Interpersonal Skills Questionnaire

WEC Worksheet 1995 by R.B. Hill
Activity: Choosing the Right Clothes
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Closet Inventory
Directions:
1. Discuss the importance of wearing the right clothes for a certain job.
(dress codes, neat dress, uniforms, safety equipment). Emphasize
that in certain situations, dress is as important to job success as
worker skills. Clothes often influence the way people perceive you.
2. Complete the closet inventory together in class. Encourage

discussion. Students should be able to provide appropriate reasons
for making certain selections.
3. Have each student choose a particular job; name a position in a

company where he or she could work after graduation. Write a
description of the appropriate dress for the job. Give reasons for the
type of clothing choices.
Time Required:
30 Minutes
Closet Inventory
Go through the following closets and check how you think each person should dress for
the job described:
Closet 1
Jill is an accountant for a life insurance company. Check the items you think she should
wear to work.
Blouse Shirt
Boots Shorts
Business Suit Skirt
Casual Shoes Slacks
Dress Socks
Jacket Sweater
Jeans T-Shirt
Jewelry Tie
Leather shoes Vest
Nylons Tennis shoes
Pants
Other
Other
Closet Inventory
the job described:
Closet 2
Calvin is a production worker in an automotive parts factory. Check the items you think
he should wear to work.
Blouse Nylons
Boots Pants
Business Suit Shirt
Casual Shoes Shorts
Dress Skirt
Dress shirt Slacks
Jacket Socks
Jeans Sweater
Jewelry T-shirt
Leather shoes Tie
Vest Tennis shoes
Other Other
Closet Inventory
the job described:
Closet 3
Shellie is a telephone repair person. Check the items you think she should wear to
work.
Blouse Nylons
Boots Pants
Business Suit Shirt
Casual Shoes Shorts
Dress Skirt
Dress shirt Slacks
Jacket Socks
Jeans Sweater
Jewelry T-shirt
Leather shoes Tie
Vest Tennis shoes
Other Other
Closet Inventory
the job described:
Closet 4
Stan is a lab assistant at a hospital. Check the items you think he should wear to work.
Blouse Nylons
Boots Pants
Business Suit Shirt
Casual Shoes Shorts
Dress Skirt
Dress shirt Slacks
Jacket Socks
Jeans Sweater
Jewelry T-shirt
Leather shoes Tie
Vest Tennis shoes
Other Other
Activity: Etiquette
Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparencies: Etiquette, paper signs, pins, visitor

supervisor and speaker
Directions: Divide students into groups of three. In small groups, have students
role-play making introductions. Use the handout for a guide--
students should change parts as the speaker, supervisor, and
visitor.
Then call one group at a time to the front of the room. Pin signs on
each member and have them make introductions based on their
assigned roles.
Let the class audience critique each group's introductions. Point out
strengths and weaknesses.
Time Required:
15 Minutes
Etiquette Introductions & Greetings

Etiquette is defined as prescribed social behavior and manners. Business etiquette
would be the prescribed behavior and manners expected in the work environment. Most
of us refer to etiquette as courtesy. Courtesy is nothing more than being considerate of
other people--treating them as we would like to be treated.
INTRODUCTIONS AND GREETINGS

There are basic rules of introduction:
Stand up
Smile
Always shake hands--and firmly
Make eye contact
Repeat the other person's name
Introducing a visitor to a supervisor: Look at and say the visitor's name first. Then
look at the supervisor and say his/her name. Example: Mr. Parker, I would like you to
meet Ms. Wendy Thomas, who is an accountant representative from Woodland and
Associates."
Introducing your supervisor to another person: Look at and say your supervisor's
name first. Then look at the other person and say his/her name. Example: "Mr. Jones, I
would like you to meet Ms. Thomas, who would like to talk to you about the position
opening."
NOTE: Introductions are based on rank rather than on gender.
Common Questions About Greetings and Introductions

Q: When is it appropriate for me to address a supervisor or administrator by his/her
first name?
A: When the person requests that you do so.
Q: When addressing a female supervisor, how should I refer to her?
A: When are you unsure of how a woman would like to be addressed, use the term
"Ms." ("Dr." if appropriate). If she prefers "Mrs.", she may tell you at that time.
Activity: Appearances Count
Materials Needed: Handouts: Appearances Count
Directions: Give each student a copy of the handout Appearances Count and
have them read it. Students should then participate in an instructor-
led discussion of the importance of appearance on job success.
Time Required:
10 Minutes
APPEARANCES COUNT
Long before I am near enough to talk to you on the street, in a meeting or

at a party, you announce your sex, age, and class to me through what you
are wearingand very possibly give me important information (or
misinformation) as to your occupation, origin, personality, opinions, tastes,
sexual desires, and current mood. By the time we meet and converse, we
have already spoken to each other in an older and more universal tongue.
Allison Lurie, Author of THE LANGUAGE OF CLOTHES
YOU HAVE JUST THIRTY SECONDS . . .
Social psychologists studying the impact of image have determined thats how long it
takes for someone meeting you to form a whole laundry list of impressions about your
character and abilities. The list of impressions encompasses:
Educational level Trustworthiness

Career competence and success Sense of humor
Personality Social heritage
Level of sophistication
Now, thirty seconds doesnt give you time to pull out your transcript, showcase your
resume, or present character references. It doesnt allow any time to explain that you
have talent, skills, training, and a substantial list of truly satisfied employers and
customers.
In thirty seconds, people from all those different impressions based almost entirely on
what they seeyour clothes, hairstyle, carriage, smile, and the rest of your nonverbal
communications. The bad thing is . . . there are no erase buttons, once a negative
impression is made, it is extremely hard to change. Appearances do count.
Appearances count, not only in first impressions, but also in ongoing interactions. In his
comprehensive research on communication, sociolinguist Albert Mehrabian found that in
a face-to-face encounter,
7 percent of a verbal message comes from the words used;
38 percent comes from the vocal tone, pacing, and inflection;
55 percent of the message is transmitted by the speakers appearance and body
language. Appearances countoften in cold, hard cash. Employers are willing to
pay for people who look the part. If the employee already projects an image of
professionalism, thats one less thingone potentially unpleasant thingthat the
firm has to worry about.
Adapted from The New Professional Image, Bixler and Nix-Rice, Adams Media Corporation, 1997, pp. 3-6.
Activity: Table Etiquette Video
Materials Needed: Video: Fundamental Table Etiquette, TV & VCR
Location of Video: Administrative Office, Deborah Wood
Directions: This video deals with dining etiquette.
Time Required:
35 Minutes
Suggested Activities For
Module 4
APPEARANCE
Page
Activity Title Time
No.
1 Rate Your Behavior 30 7
2 Omitting Offensive Language 10 10
3 Turning Around Put-Downs 30 12
4 Work Ethic and Human Relations on the Job 20 14
5 Workplace Grooming 20 16
6 Why Was I Fired? 20 18
7 Manners, Appearance, Hygiene 10 20
8 Choosing the Right Clothes 30 31
9 Etiquette 15 36
10 Appearances Count 10 38
11 Table Etiquette Video 35 40

Vol. 2 - Module 4 Act. - APPEARANCE

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Vol. 2 - Module 4 Act. - APPEARANCE

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Module 4

LESSON TITLE: Appearance

INTRODUCTION: Upon completion of this lesson, students will understand the

EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS:

Appearance deals with every aspect of how we perceive an individual. In an instant, we

For your program, the proper classroom/lab attire is:

Not interrupting others while they are talking;

Suggested Activities For

2 Omitting Offensive Language 10 10

3 Turning Around Put-Downs 30 12

4 Work Ethic and Human Relations on the Job 20 14

6 Why Was I Fired? 20 18

7 Manners, Appearance, Hygiene 10 20

8 Choosing the Right Clothes 30 31

Activity: Rate Your Behavior

Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Rate Your Behavior, Rate My Behavior,

Rate Your Behavior

1. What do you do if you disagree with something that's said?

2. Are you courteous to other class members?

4. Do you disrupt the instructor while he/she is lecturing or answering another

1. What do I do if I disagree with something that's said?

2. Am I courteous to other class members?

4. Do I disrupt the instructor while he/she is lecturing or answering another student's

5. Am I supportive and encouraging to other class members, even if I don't agree

Activity: Omitting Offensive Language

Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Omitting Offensive Language, pen or

Directions: Distribute the "Omitting Offensive Language" handout. Have

Omitting Offensive Language

1. Most of "you people" have trouble with grammar.

2. That sweater really shows off all your "assets."

3. Would you stop bugging me: I'm busy!

4. You kids don't know how to do anything!

5. All you Orientals are good at math.

6. Hey! Shut up back there; I'm on the phone!

7. Get out of my space, NOW!

8. An idiot could figure that one out.

9. What else is a man good for?

10. Get me a copy of this pronto, Tonto.

Activity: Turning Around Put-Downs

Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Turning Around Put-Downs, flip chart

Turning Around Put-Downs

You could say . . .

You could say . . .

You could say . . .

You could say . . .

Activity: Work Ethic and Human Relations on the Job

Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: Work Ethic and Human Relations on the

Directions: Distribute to each student the Student Activity Sheet on Annoying

Work Ethic and Human Relations on the Job

DIRECTIONS: Rate each of the following habits on a scale of 1-5. Be prepared to

_____ 1. Being bossy _____ 14. Putting on airs

_____ 2. Bragging _____ 15. Seeking attention

_____ 3. Cheating _____ 16. Spitting

_____ 4. Continually criticizing _____ 17. Talking too much

_____ 5. Coughing on others _____ 18. Talking too loudly

_____ 6. Cracking or popping gum _____ 19. Talking about sex

_____ 7. Disrespecting the elderly _____ 20. Trying to be funny

_____ 8. Gossiping _____ 21. Using baby talk

_____ 9. Giving unwanted advice _____ 22. Using incorrect words

_____ 11. Losing temper _____ 24. Dominating conversations

_____ 13. Pushing to the front of lines

Activity: Workplace Grooming

Materials Needed: Handouts/Transparency: The Dental Hygienist, pen or pencil

_ 1. Being bossy _ 14. Putting on airs

_ 2. Bragging _ 15. Seeking attention

_ 3. Cheating _ 16. Spitting

_ 4. Continually criticizing _ 17. Talking too much

_ 5. Coughing on others _ 18. Talking too loudly

_ 6. Cracking or popping gum _ 19. Talking about sex

_ 7. Disrespecting the elderly _ 20. Trying to be funny

_ 8. Gossiping _ 21. Using baby talk

_ 9. Giving unwanted advice _ 22. Using incorrect words

_ 11. Losing temper _ 24. Dominating conversations